Justice News

Crime Stoppers Tip Helps Catch Bank Robber

McALLEN, Texas – A Palmview resident accused of robbing the International Bank of Commerce in McAllen has now been convicted, United States Attorney Kenneth Magidson announced today. Erick Lee Chiu, 21, entered a plea of guilty just a short time ago.

In November 2012, Chiu walked into the bank wearing a wig and trying to conceal his identity, and handed the teller a note demanding money. The note threatened that he had a gun, but that no one would be hurt as long as they did not call the police. Bank tellers handed Chiu the money and fled the bank before law enforcement arrived.

Through a McAllen Crime Stoppers Tip the following day, police were able to identify Chiu as the bank robber. He was subsequently arrested and the money was recovered.

Chiu is set for sentencing before Chief United States District Judge Ricardo H. Hinojosa on June 11, 2013. At that time, he faces as much as 20 years in prison, a maximum $250,000 fine.

He has been in custody since Nov. 17, 2012, and will remain in custody pending sentencing.

The FBI investigated the case along with the McAllen Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen J. Rees is prosecuting the case.